SUNSHINE BEACH RENO
A Thoughtful Sunshine Coast Renovation for a Growing Family
This Sunshine Coast renovation proves that great home design isn’t about big budgets — it’s about clear ideas, thoughtful planning, and a willingness to get your hands dirty.
Designed for a young, growing family who had just purchased their very first home, this project began as a modest and dated 1980s two-bedroom house. The home was small, tired, and poorly planned, but it had good bones and enormous potential. With limited funds but plenty of enthusiasm, the owners embraced a hands-on approach to renovating, working closely through the design process to ensure every decision added genuine value.
From the outset, the goal was not excess, but efficiency. This was a small renovation with a big impact — a complete re-working of the floor plan, improved functionality, and the addition of spaces that would allow the home to grow with the family over time.
Reworking the Floor Plan: Function First
The original layout reflected its era: compartmentalised rooms, inefficient circulation, and little connection to the outdoors. Fundamental planning changes were required to transform the house into a modern, liveable family home.
The renovation introduced a new master bedroom, a compact yet functional ensuite, and a generous outdoor deck — all while maintaining a sensible building footprint. Every square metre had to work hard. Walls were removed, circulation simplified, and living spaces re-oriented to maximise light, airflow, and connection to the landscape.
This careful approach to building design ensured the home now feels open, calm, and practical, despite its modest size.
An Exercise in Economy and Restraint
The design philosophy was guided by reduction rather than addition. It became an exercise in economy — removing every superfluous element until only the essentials remained.
Instead of relying on expensive finishes or unnecessary detailing, the focus was placed on proportion, material honesty, and spatial clarity. This approach not only kept the renovation within budget, but also resulted in a timeless aesthetic that will age gracefully.
As renowned modernist architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe famously said, “Less is more.” This quote became a quiet touchstone throughout the project, reinforcing the idea that good architecture — and good home design — is about intention, not excess.
Influences: Modernism Meets Local Vernacular
The design draws inspiration from 1950s and 60s modernist architecture, Californian case study homes, particularly their emphasis on indoor-outdoor living, simple forms, and relaxed family life. These ideas were carefully adapted to suit the Sunshine Coast climate and lifestyle.
Local vernacular architectural styles also played an important role. Wide openings, shaded outdoor areas, and natural ventilation were prioritised to create a home that feels comfortable year-round without relying heavily on mechanical heating or cooling.
A Sustainable and Practical Approach
Sustainable design principles were incorporated wherever possible, not as a trend, but as a practical response to budget and climate. Retaining and adapting the existing structure reduced waste, while thoughtful orientation and passive design strategies improved energy efficiency.
The large deck extends the living area outdoors, encouraging a relaxed Sunshine Coast way of life and reducing the need for additional internal space. Materials were selected for durability and ease of maintenance — ideal for a busy family home.
A Home Designed to Grow
This renovation demonstrates how considered planning, clear priorities, and collaborative design can completely transform a small, dated house into a functional and beautiful family home.
It’s a reminder that good local building design doesn’t have to be grand, and meaningful home design doesn’t require a massive budget. With smart ideas, sustainable thinking, and a strong connection to place, even the smallest Sunshine Coast renovation can deliver lasting value — both financially and emotionally.
A minimalist beach house renovation.
Before Images:
